A comparison of input‐output, process‐output, and input‐process‐output models of small group problem‐solving effectiveness

Abstract

This paper tests three different regression models in small group problem‐solving. The independent conditions are discussion procedure, task solution multiplicity, and discussion topic. Dependent measures include satisfaction with the solution, procedure, and group; and the quality of the final solution, the number of ideas for solutions, and the number of unique ideas. The independent conditions model accounted for more variance in productivity measures and the communication model accounted for more variance in satisfaction measures. The total model, consisting of significant independent conditions, communication behaviors, and interaction effects between communication and procedure, accounted for the most variance in two measures of satisfaction and three measures of productivity.